FROM GANO BHABAN: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday categorically said the dignity of the country was increased through the 10th Europe-Asia Meeting (ASEM) held in Italy.

The premier was addressing a press conference at Gano Bhaban over experience of the meeting held in Italy.

Sheikh Hasina said, “We talked with chief of the governments of different countries over climate change, immigration, MDG and overall development of Asia.”

“We also talked about militancy. I said militants do not have religion, boundary. The world leaders were urged not to sell arms to the militants,” she added.

The premier also added: “We expressed firm determination to free the country of militant, communalism and war criminals.”

In response to a query of a journalist, she said, “Different states and their leaders did not raise any question on January 5 election, rather congratulated me for being elected again.”

She also expressed determination to build a happy and prosperous Bangladesh by 2041.

On October 15, the premier went to Italy a 118-member entourage and attended the 10th ASEM. She returned home on October 18 after wrapping up her 4-day visit.

BDST: 1740 HRS, OCT 23, 2014